EXPLORA III Officially Named in Barcelona

Explora Journeys officially named EXPLORA III in Barcelona, welcoming the brand’s first LNG-powered ship to the fleet and marking the halfway point in its vision of six ships redefining ultra-elegant ocean travel.

Following her early delivery in Genoa on July 23, EXPLORA III embarked on a ‘Prelude Journey’ through the Mediterranean before arriving in Barcelona for the official naming ceremony. 

On board for the event was Explora Journeys Global Brand Ambassador Jannik Sinner, one of the world’s top tennis players. 

The ceremony featured addresses by the Executive Chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division, Pierfrancesco Vago, Explora Journeys President Anna Nash, President of the Port of Barcelona José Alberto Carbonell and Godmother Cristina Ozores, renowned marine educator and founder of the conservation organization Vellmarí. 

Guests then gathered throughout EXPLORA III’s culinary venues for a gala dinner before the celebrations culminated in an unforgettable evening of entertainment, featuring disco icons Sister Sledge.

“Naming EXPLORA III is a momentous occasion that reflects both the trajectory of our fleet and our steadfast commitment to shaping the future of ultra-elegant ocean travel,” said Anna Nash. “Conceived as a destination in her own right, EXPLORA III brings to life an even more generous expression of space, design, gastronomy and holistic wellbeing, with every detail encouraging the presence and connection that defines our unique Ocean State of Mind.”

Godmother Cristina Ozores had this to say: “For me, being the Godmother of EXPLORA III is about opening the door to a new kind of experience — one where people can truly discover the ocean in a deeper, more meaningful way. I hope each journey invites them to feel the beauty beneath the surface, to be amazed by its colours and life, and to reconnect with the sea with curiosity, joy, and a genuine desire to care for it.”

Measuring 19.2 meters (63 ft) longer than her sister ships, EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, the latest vessel dedicates every additional meter to the guest experience, offering 19.5 square meters of public space per guest—one of the highest ratios in the industry and the most generous across the Explora Journeys fleet.

“The real evolution on EXPLORA III is our idea of casual luxury, now even more mature and consistent throughout the ship,” said Antonio Di Nenno, Director of Architecture & Design. “Luxury should be everywhere but never feel formal or intimidating. It should feel elegant, comfortable and familiar, like being at home.”

Following the celebrations in Barcelona, EXPLORA III departed on August 3 on a seven-night Maiden Journey to Lisbon. Her inaugural season will then take her through Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland and North America.